Do you know how many times I've heard that it's an anomaly when a creative person also has business acumen? If you're a woman in this industry you probably feel the effects of this misconception even more than we're comfortable saying out loud (that's a topic for another day). Fuck that. In 2024, don't be afraid to be about your business.
Let's first break down common misconceptions surrounding artists:
A successful career as an artist is rare (have a back up plan).
Artists live in a fantasy world (they're just dreamers).
Artists are unreliable (they don't like structure).
I could go on, but we're not here to perpetuate that bullshit.
Now let's explore what I mean by "be about your business:"
File your LLC. Yes, even if you're a solo entrepreneur. A career in the arts means establishing your brand as a formal business.
Understand basic tax advantages for business (yes, you should be expensing a lot more than you probably realize).
Protect your intellectual property like you would physical property (copyrights, trademarks, patents).
Hire people who add value to your brand: lawyers, managers, accountants, assistants, etc.
Use contracts for every transaction. And yes, hire a lawyer who specializes in your industry to help draft these standard business documents.
Send digital invoices with the ability for clients to pay you immediately. Due upon receipt.
Make more data-driven decisions. Sometimes our emotions trick us. We're human.
Create a marketing plan that allows you to be creative, vulnerable, and your authentic self.
In 2024 let's make a promise to each other. As often as you showcase your craft, you flex your business aptitude. Whether you're an artist, musician, restaurateur, or the illustrious multi-hypenate, strive to better understand the importance of not only establishing a brand, but nourishing, and protecting it. Yes, protecting it. From financial ruin. From theft. From stagnation. As much as it's important for an artist to feel inspired, it's just as important for an artist to be feel empowered to be the CEO of their own career.
To be clear, I'm not advocating for you to wear multiple hats everyday and stretch yourself so thin you ignore that voice inside you that says you were born to create. No. Sometimes being the CEO means you need to hire out certain roles and responsibilities to ensure the business is healthy.
I'll conclude with this: it won't be easy, but it'll be worth it. Being about your business sometimes means you have to make tough decisions and have uncomfortable conversations. At the core of this idea is boundary setting. Establishing what you will and won't tolerate. In 2024, I hope you commit to not only smashing misconceptions, but proving to yourself you are both an artist and a business badass. When you're ready to take this step, reach out to us at CEA.
xo,
Sunshine
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